Understanding Skin Tag ICD-10 Codes: A Complete Guide

Skin tags are small, soft growths that often appear on the skin’s surface, especially in areas where the skin folds, like the neck, armpits, or groin. While usually harmless, they can be bothersome or cause cosmetic concerns. For healthcare professionals, understanding the correct skin tag icd 10 code is essential for accurate documentation, billing, and treatment planning.

What Are Skin Tags?

Skin tags, also called acrochordons, are benign growths made of skin and connective tissue. They often appear in adulthood and can increase with age. Common risk factors include obesity, diabetes, hormonal changes, and genetics. Skin tags are generally painless, though they may become irritated from friction with clothing or jewelry.

Most patients seek medical attention for skin tags due to cosmetic reasons, irritation, or when a growth changes in appearance. Proper diagnosis ensures that treatment, including removal, is safe and effective.

ICD-10 Code for Skin Tags

The ICD-10-CM code for a skin tag is L91.8. This code falls under the category of “Other specified disorders of skin and subcutaneous tissue.”

Here’s the breakdown:

L91.8 – Other specified disorders of skin and subcutaneous tissue.

Some clinicians may also document the location of the skin tag, especially if multiple lesions appear in different areas. While L91.8 covers general skin tags, some providers add additional codes for more precise localization or related conditions. Accurate coding ensures proper reimbursement and clear patient records.

Why Correct ICD-10 Coding Matters

Billing Accuracy – Insurance companies rely on ICD-10 codes to process claims. Using the correct code for skin tags prevents claim denials.
Patient Records – Clear coding helps track treatment outcomes, monitor recurring skin growths, and plan follow-up care.
Research & Reporting – Public health studies and dermatological research often use ICD-10 codes. Correct documentation contributes to accurate statistics on skin disorders.

Symptoms That Lead Patients to Seek Treatment

Although skin tags are generally harmless, they can prompt patients to consult a healthcare provider due to:

Irritation from rubbing against clothing, belts, or jewelry
Sudden growth or changes in appearance
Cosmetic concerns, especially on the face or neck

Healthcare professionals will examine the growth to confirm that it is a benign skin tag and not another skin condition, like a mole, wart, or, in rare cases, a precancerous lesion.

Common Treatments for Skin Tags

Healthcare providers remove skin tags using several methods:

Cryotherapy – Freezing the growth with liquid nitrogen
Excision – Cutting off the tag with sterile scissors or a scalpel
Cauterization – Burning off the tag using heat
Ligation – Tying off the base of the tag to cut off blood supply

These procedures are typically quick and done in-office. They carry minimal risk and rarely leave scars. Patients can usually return to normal activities immediately.

Preventing Skin Tags

While not all skin tags are preventable, patients can reduce the risk by:

Maintaining a healthy weight
Controlling blood sugar levels if diabetic
Reducing friction in areas prone to skin folds
Practicing good hygiene to prevent skin irritation

Although skin tags are benign, monitoring them for changes is important. Any sudden color change, bleeding, or rapid growth warrants evaluation.

Documenting Skin Tags in Medical Records

When documenting skin tags, healthcare providers should:

Note the number, size, and location of each tag
Record treatment performed and method used
Assign the appropriate ICD-10 code (L91.8) for billing and record-keeping

Accurate documentation ensures compliance with insurance requirements and provides a clear history for the patient’s future care.

FAQs About Skin Tags and ICD-10 Coding

Q: Can skin tags be cancerous?
A: Skin tags are almost always benign. However, if a growth changes rapidly, bleeds, or looks unusual, providers may perform a biopsy to rule out other conditions.

Q: Are skin tags hereditary?
A: Genetics can play a role. People with family members who develop skin tags are more likely to have them.

Q: Is removal covered by insurance?
A: Insurance typically covers removal if the tag causes pain or irritation. Cosmetic removals may not be covered.

Q: Can skin tags return after removal?
A: Yes, new tags may develop over time, especially in areas prone to friction.

Conclusion

Skin tags are common, benign skin growths that rarely pose a health risk. Accurate documentation using the ICD-10 code L91.8 is essential for proper billing and patient care. Understanding the nature, treatment options, and prevention strategies helps providers deliver effective care while maintaining precise medical records.

By recognizing skin tags early and coding them correctly, healthcare professionals ensure smooth treatment processes, accurate insurance claims, and satisfied patients.